Soji Ajibola,Ibadan
Senate Council of the University of Ibadan on Monday elected Prof Adebola Babatunde Ekanola as Acting Vice-chancellor.
FirstNews exclusively reported last week that the Council would elect Acting Vice-chancellor on Monday.
Ministry of Education through the National Universities Commission last week directed the institution’s management to select one from among them to act as the Vice Chancellor of the University.
As expected, a tough meeting but one thoroughly guided by adherence to standard procedures was held when the Senate decided that the process would be, not by consensus, but by voting.
It was gathered that agreeing on this took about two hours of discussion.
The meeting called for nominations and seconding of nominations from members.
Senate members nominated for the election included Professor Adebola Babatunde Ekanola (Current Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic); Professor Olanike Adeyemo (Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research Innovation and Strategic Partnerships); Prof. A. Oluleye (former Dean, Fauclty of Technology); Prof. Adigun Agbaje (former Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic) and Prof Gbemisola Oke (former Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic).
According to speakers at the meeting, it was important that Senate took a united decision with demonstrated transparency in order to guard the autonomy of the university and prevented interference from government and politicians.
Members of Senate were therefore duly accredited afresh, and voting took place through secret ballot.
The result showed that Prof Adebola Babatunde Ekanola scored 275 votes; Professor Olanike Adeyemo = 13 votes; Prof. A. Oluleye, 80 votes; Prof. Adigun Agbaje,15 votes; Prof Gbemisola Oke,14 votes.
The Senate strongly ratified the results and adjourned.